CASTLETON — Proving to be a leader in Vermont health, physical education and athletic training, the Castleton College community was recently recognized and presented at the annual Vermont Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Conference (VTAHPRED) on Nov. 14. This year’s event was held at the Killington Grand Resort and focused on shaping the futures of Vermont kids, families and communities.
Students, faculty, coaches and alumni came together for the two-day learning experience and celebration.
“The conference is designed to bring together local professionals in the field,” said Lisa Pleban, Associate Professor of Physical Education and Executive Director of VTAHPERD.
Honored at the event for their dedication and leadership in the PE field were professor Katy Culpo, who was presented with the 2014 Higher Education Teacher of the Year award, and Castleton alum Adrienne Weld, who earned High School Physical Education Teacher of the Year.
Former coach, Castleton Hall of Famer and nationally recognized educator, Stevie Chepko was also recognized, receiving the VTAHPERD Distinguished Service Award.
Chepko was a persistent spokeswoman and advocate for quality programs for female athletes while at Castleton. Her expertise in physical education was legendary, as she was a dedicated instructor who tirelessly provided endless opportunities for student growth and development.
In addition to those recognized, five Castleton students from the athletic training program and four health and physical education students utilized their classroom knowledge to educate others as presenters at the event.
Brian Green and Emily Raber shared researched information on “Body Awareness: An Interactive Look at Posture,” Karissa McCoy, Colleen Jenkins and Brianna Narodowy presented “Tools to Help Your School Meet the Vermont State Concussion Law,” Daniel Belleville, Brynna-Lee Carper, Kali Trautwein, and Andrew Worden spoke on “Using Medline Plus to teach NHES 3 Accessing Information Skills.”
Student presenters were joined by more than two-dozen additional Castleton students and faculty members present at the event.
“We’ve managed each year to have more students come and get involved in the event,” said Assistant Professor of Physical Education Katy Culpo. “It gives them the opportunity to engage on a more professional level with leaders in the field and network with successful Castleton alumni.”
The Vermont Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Conference provides knowledge about programs, new guidelines, professional development, and services for members, as well as recognizing and celebrating successful individuals in the field.
